My cycling journey has changed over time. As I got older I started to re-evaluate what I wanted out of a bike and the style of riding that I was doing. I read Grant Peterson's writings and looked at his bikes and they spoke to me. I bought a Rivendell for my wife first, then decided to take the plunge a year later. My bike has been a pleasure to ride and I have never regretted it. Yet, my cycling journey has not ended and it is time for another bike. Unfortunately, like relationships, Rivendell and I are not growing at the same pace and we seem to be moving in different directions. So, as the OP noted Rivendell has changed and it changed in a way that is not suited to what I want for my next bike. I am grateful for what I have learned while being a Rivendell customer and owner and I hope that the shop succeeds. I will continue to shop there, I just won't be buying another frame or bike from them.